A patient arrives at the clinic for her annual pelvic exam and a refill on her oral contraceptives. The nurse understands the importance of assessing which of the following for a patient on oral contraceptives?

Explanation

• Hypertension is a common side effect of oral contraceptives. The nurse should assess the patient's blood pressure.

• The nurse should also assess for other possible side effects including abnormal vaginal bleeding, or unilateral numbness, weakness, or leg pain due to the risk of VTE. 

• Incorrect: Oral contraceptives do not commonly have an impact on kidney function, blood glucose, or oxygen saturation. A urinalysis would not be regularly performed.

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